World leaders wished a Happy Chanukah to Israel and world Jewry ahead of the holiday, which begins on Wednesday evening.
The holiday celebrates the victory of the Jews, led by the Maccabees—a Jewish priestly family—over the Seleucid Empire and the forces of Hellenistic assimilation in the second century BCE.
The holiday is commemorated by the lighting of the menorah, which symbolizes the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem.
U.S. President Joe Biden, speaking at a White House Chanukah reception on Dec. 16, reiterated his support for Israel.
“I’ve said many times before, my commitment to the safety of the Jewish people and security of Israel and its right to exist as an independent nation-state remains ironclad,” he said.
“I know this year’s Chanukah falls on the hearts that are still very heavy. It’s the second Chanukah since the horrors of Oct. 7. Over 1,000 slaughtered, hundreds taken hostage, unspeakable sexual violence and so much more. The trauma of that day and its aftermath is still raw and ongoing,” Biden added, speaking of the Hamas invasion last year.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer of the United Kingdom, hosting his first Chanukah reception at Downing Street on Tuesday, expressed admiration for the Jewish community’s resilience.
“I am absolutely acutely aware of just how difficult the year has been on so many levels,” he said. “We will do everything we can so the Jewish community stands tall and proud and safe and secure, stamping out intimidation wherever we find it.”
Antisemitic incidents in the United Kingdom have surged in 2024, according to Community Security Trust, a Jewish nonprofit.
Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi tweeted in Hebrew: “Best wishes to Prime Minister @netanyahu and to all people around the world celebrating the holiday of Chanukah. May the light of Chanukah illuminate everyone’s lives with hope, peace and strength. Happy Chanukah!”
מיטב האיחולים לראש הממשלה @netanyahu ולכל האנשים ברחבי העולם חוגגים את חג החנוכה. יהיה רצון שזוהר חנוכה יאיר את חיי כולם בתקווה, שלום וכוח. חג חנוכה שמח!
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 25, 2024
Zoran Milanović, president of the Republic of Croatia, wrote in a statement, “May the light that symbolizes Hanukkah guide you through the challenges of modern life and illuminate your homes, enabling you to celebrate the holiday in peace and prosperity, surrounded by the warmth of family joy and the companionship of friends.”
Chanukah falls on Christmas this year for the first time since 2005. It has only fallen on Christmas a handful of times since 1900, including in the years 1910, 1921 and 1959.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar extended Christmas greetings on Tuesday evening.
“To our Christian friends in Israel and around the world—your friendship and steadfast support for the Jewish State, especially as it fought enemies on many fronts, has been a source of strength,” he posted to X.
“We are united by our shared values. Together, let us continue striving for a better and freer world, guided by these very convictions. Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!”
